Description
These classic lemon bars feature a buttery, tender crust topped with a tangy, sweet lemon filling. Perfectly balanced between tart and sweet, they are dusted with powdered sugar for a delightful finish. Easy to make and ideal for any occasion, these lemon bars bake up beautifully in an 8×8 inch pan for easy serving.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
Filling
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sprinkling on top of crust before adding filling)
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
For Dusting
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt, then mix until just combined to form a dough.
- Bake the Crust: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake the crust for 13 to 14 minutes or until the edges turn slightly golden brown. Once done, remove the crust from the oven.
- Prepare the Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, 1 cup granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and sifted flour in a separate bowl until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Sprinkle Sugar and Add Filling: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the warm crust. Then pour the prepared lemon filling mixture over the crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake Lemon Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 22 minutes, until the lemon filling is set and the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the lemon bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, dust the top generously with powdered sugar. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for the best crust texture.
- Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to achieving the bright lemon flavor.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For an extra touch, you can add a thin layer of powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: lemon bars, lemon dessert, baked lemon bars, citrus dessert, easy lemon bars, tangy lemon bars
